A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Valsartan/Simvastatin Combinations in Patients With Both Essential Hypertension and Hypercholesterolemia

A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of the Valsartan/Simvastatin Combinations 160/20mg up Titrated to 320/20mg Versus 160/40mg up Titrated to 320/40mg in Patients With Both Essential Hypertension and Hypercholesterolemia

The purpose of this study is to provide data on the dose response of simvastatin in lowering LDL-C when it is co-administered with valsartan in patients with both essential hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. The primary objective of the study will be to show that the combination of valsartan 160mg/simvastatin 40mg has superior efficacy compared to the combination of valsartan 160mg/simvastatin 20mg in percentage change from baseline in LDL-C.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Elevated LDL-Cholesterol
• Essential hypertension

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe Hypertension
• Prior or known muscular or neuromuscular disease of any type
• A history of cardiovascular disease
• Hypertension or hypercholesterolemia due to secondary causes
• Uncontrolled diabetes or insulin treatment
• Evidence of hepatic or renal disease

Other protocol-defined exclusion criteria may apply